FEI Quanta FEG 250, User'S Operation Manual

Page: 224 / 228

System Options: Quick Loader
9-76
Loading rod
The loading rod has a pre-machined slot to move in to load or unload
a sample. At each end there is a side slot. There are 2 side slots at the
further end from the vacuum chamber. One is for loading and
unloading the sample carrier in the loader chamber and the other is a
parking position (prevents the rod to be sucked in by the vacuum).
CAUTION!
Do not unload the sample carrier with gate valve opened! The sample
carrier could drop down from the rod.
At the end of the rod closest to the loader chamber is a large slot for
coupling and de-coupling the bayonet into or out of the sample carrier
when positioned on the carrier adapter.
The bayonet is designed to make a positive and secure connection to
the sample carrier so that it remains horizontal and in a straight line to
connect with the carrier adapter within the specimen chamber.
Gate valve
The Gate Valve has positions that are defined by the following status:
• rotated position of the Gate Valve Lever: LOCK / UNLOCK
The position has to be turned from LOCK to UNLOCK to be able to
move the loading rod IN and OUT
• colored strips on the side of the exposed barrel axis:
one / two when IN / OUT
• Position 1 - IN and LOCK
• Position 2 - IN and UNLOCK
• Position 3 - OUT
The Gate Valve has a two safety movements.
• it can be placed over the entry hole on the slide
• it can be locked in place by a turn of the connecting knob (securing
the closure of the valve)
A system interlock takes care of correct conditions (system vacuum,
accelerating voltage) for loading and unloading cycles (movement of
the gate valve).
Controls
There are 2 buttons (the buttons are illuminated while in operation)
and 1 indicator lamp:
• The P (pump) labeled button is pressed to pump the loader
chamber to the required vacuum, the stage moves to a loading
position at the same time. If the system reaches appropriate